Sinethemba Badela enjoys dream debut as Durban City edge Polokwane City

Sinethemba Badela enjoyed a winning start to life as Durban City coach, securing a 1-0 victory in their Betway Premiership clash against Polokwane City at Chatsworth Stadium on Sunday evening.

A fine first-half header from Trevor Mokwena proved to be the difference. The former Chippa United coach, who stepped into the hot seat following the shock departure of Gavin Hunt last month, faced a stern test against Phuti Mohafe's solid Limpopo side.

Polokwane City sat one point and one place above Durban City on 24 points before kick-off, but Badela passed his first assignment with flying colours.

The hosts shaded the early exchanges, though clear-cut chances were at a premium for both sides. The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 18th minute when the livewire Mokwena rose highest to power a header into the roof of the net from a Saziso Magawane corner.

Magawane almost turned from provider to scorer as Durban City continued to boss proceedings. The hosts were equally well-organised in defence, with Zimbabwe international Emmanuel Jalai looking solid on his debut at right-back.

Polokwane City eventually grew into the contest but were largely restricted to long-range efforts, the best of which fell to Banele Mnguni.

Badela's charges started the second stanza brightly, using a high press to cause the Polokwane defence significant problems. A long ball from Durban City goalkeeper Darren Keet was expertly flicked on by Mokwena, but Samkelo Maseko snatched at the resulting shot.

Mohafe cut a frustrated figure on the sidelines as the visitors struggled to string passes together or break down a resolute home guard. A late red card for Puleng Marema compounded the visitors' frustrations, allowing Durban City to comfortably see out the game with impressive composure.

Scoreboard

Durban City 1 (1)
Trevor Mokwena 18

Polokwane City 0